British people have a deep affection for their dogs. In fact, 25% of households in the United Kingdom own a dog, a statistic likely to have increased due to the rise in pet ownership during the COVID-19 lockdown. With many vacationers eyeing domestic trips, the timing is perfect for those offering resources on pet-friendly travel.
A dog is for life, not just for lockdown
The newfound enthusiasm for acquiring dogs has also raised concerns from animal welfare charity, the Dog’s Trust, which cautions against impulsive pet purchases. Their timely motto was updated to “a dog is for life, not just for lockdown.”
New dog owners must devise a solid plan for ongoing care when life resumes, especially as human family members return to work. Notably, workplace culture has shifted, leading to more businesses adopting dog-friendly policies.
Freelancers, small business owners, and even larger companies are recognizing the benefits of allowing dogs in the workplace, creating a more inclusive environment for workers and their pets.
Taking a break with your dog
Many dog owners experience significant emotional turmoil when considering a vacation away from their pets. The idea of leaving a dog with someone else becomes unthinkable for some. Consequently, pet-friendly accommodations have gained immense popularity.
“As a dog owner myself, I recognized there are various places that warmly welcome pets. Some establishments truly enhance the experience of traveling with your dog,” shares Martin Dunford, an expert in Dog Friendly Britain: Cool Places to Stay with Your Dog.
“In my research, I discovered the lengths some locations go to accommodate dogs, even in major cities like London. For instance, one hotel features dog film nights and tea parties for pets. The staff at these venues consistently exhibit a friendly attitude,” Dunford explains.
Dog-friendly accommodation
The rising popularity of dogs presents a significant opportunity for tourism businesses to create dedicated dog-focused holidays. It’s not just quaint country pubs and boutique hotels catering to furry friends; you can find remote cabins, luxury hotels, charming gastropubs, and even glamping spots eager to provide for dogs and their owners. Many of these accommodations are located in scenic areas ideal for leisurely walks with your canine companion.
“The trend towards dog-friendly lodging was already gaining traction, but the lockdown experience intensified the sentiment that dogs are integral to family life,” Dunford remarks.
“With many individuals canceling their overseas travel plans, there’s truly no reason not to embark on a road trip with your dog,” he adds.
Catching the train with your dog
For those without access to a car, enjoying holiday adventures with a dog via train is entirely feasible.
Brighton barber, Buck Rumstache, adopted his rescue pup McKenzie from Wood Green, The Animals Charity in January 2019. “I typically limit train journeys with McKenzie to two to three hours,” Buck states. “Taking your dog on a train in the UK incurs no additional costs, and I’ve found the staff are always enthusiastic and accommodating.”
For longer journeys, such as a trip to Whitby, Buck emphasizes the importance of planning for breaks to walk and care for the dog along the way.
Europe travel with your pooch
Holidaymakers can currently take their dogs to Europe by securing a Pet Passport, crossing to the continent via ferry or the Eurotunnel, following the Pets Travel Scheme.
New pet travel regulations between the UK and Europe are expected to come into effect on January 1, 2021, although specifics remain forthcoming. Current advisories indicate that pet owners should begin preparations with their veterinarian at least four months prior to departure.
David Mouttou and Mike Khan, owners to dogs Rosie, Hector, and Clementine, frequently travel between France and the UK together. “Traveling with a dog offers different experiences in each country,” David notes. “In France, dogs are permitted in restaurants and hotel stays are generally less expensive.”
Moreover, in France, staying at large chateaux allows greater freedom, as owners can occupy any room with their dogs, rather than being restricted to specific pet-friendly rooms often found in the UK.
